The 35 Most Instagrammable Photo Spots in Tokyo

Are you planning a trip to the electric heart of Japan and searching for the best photo spots in Tokyo? You're in the right place. Tokyo is a city that pulses with energy, a sprawling metropolis where ancient tradition and dizzying futurism collide on every corner. It's a photographer's dream, but its sheer size can be overwhelming.

This is more than just a list; it's a field guide. In my Journey to 1000 Cities, I've personally visited and shot every location here. I don't just show you my photos—I give you the exact GPS coordinates for every single shot. No more wandering around looking for that one angle. You can go straight to the spot, set up your tripod, and capture the magic.

From the world's busiest intersection to serene, hidden alleys, this is your ultimate guide to the 35 most instagrammable spots in Tokyo.

Why Trust This Tokyo Photography Guide?

• First-Hand Experience: Every location on this list has been personally scouted and photographed by me.

• Exact GPS Coordinates: Get the perfect shot without guessing. I provide the precise coordinates for each viewpoint.

• Pro Photography Tips: Each spot includes specific advice on timing, gear, and composition to elevate your photos.

• Designed for All Photographers: Whether you're using a professional camera or just your phone, this guide will help you capture incredible images.

From the world's busiest intersection to serene, hidden alleys, this is your ultimate guide to the 35 most Instagrammable spots in Tokyo.

HERE are the TOP 35 Instagrammable Photo Spots in TOKYO, JAPAN

I’ve also created a map with EXACTLY where to I took these photographs at the end. These pins come directly from the GPS marker on my photos.

• Quick Guide: The Top 35 Instagrammable Spots in Tokyo

  1. teamLab Borderless

  2. Omoide Yokocho

  3. Senso-ji: The Main Hall & Five-Story Pagoda

  4. Senso-ji:The Kaminarimon Gate

  5. The View of Shibuya Crossing (from Starbucks)

  6. The View from the Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center

  7. The Tokyo Skytree View from Asakusa

  8. Nakamise-dori Shopping Street

  9. Azabudai Hills Sky ROOM (34F)

  10. Meiji Jingu Shrine (The Giant Torii Gate)

  11. Hie Shrine

  12. Tokyo Skytree

  13. Tokyo Tower (View from the Top)

  14. teamLab Planets TOKYO

  15. Zojo-ji Temple

  16. Shinjuku Golden Gai

  17. Akihabara "Electric Town"

  18. The Odaiba Statue of Liberty

  19. Godzilla Head (Shinjuku Kabukicho)

  20. The National Art Center, Tokyo

  21. Tokyo International Forum

  22. Gotokuji Temple (The "Lucky Cat" Temple)

  23. Hamarikyu Gardens

  24. Nezu Museum & Garden

  25. Takeshita Street, Harajuku

  26. Ghibli Museum, Mitaka

  27. Yanaka Ginza Shopping Street

  28. Imperial Palace Grounds

  29. Akasaka Palace (State Guesthouse)

  30. Tokyo Station (Marunouchi Side)

  31. Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building

  32. National Diet Building

  33. Kyu Asakura House

  34. Hijiri-bashi Bridge

  35. Edo-Tokyo Open Air Architectural Museum

teamLab Borderless

The original immersive art experience, now reopened in Azabudai Hills. Borderless is a vast, interconnected world without a set path, encouraging exploration. It's famous for rooms like the "Forest of Resonating Lamps" and "Universe of Water Particles," offering endless opportunities for surreal photos. Being in an exhibit like this is a surreal experience… I actually recommend putting the camera and the phone away and just experiencing it fully with your senses without distraction.

PRO PHOTO TIP: The "Forest of Resonating Lamps" is the iconic shot. You often only get a minute or two in the room, so be ready. The mirrored walls create infinite reflections. Have your camera settings prepared before you enter.

GPS Coordinates: 35.6631° N, 139.7431° E

Address: Azabudai Hills Garden Plaza B B1, 1-2-4 Azabudai, Minato-ku, Tokyo

Cost: ~$3,800 JPY. Book tickets well in advance.

Best Time to Shoot: Weekday evenings to avoid the biggest crowds.

Official Website: teamLab Borderless

Omoide Yokocho

Step back in time to Showa-era Tokyo. Omoide Yokocho is a narrow, lantern-lit alley in Shinjuku packed with tiny yakitori stalls. It’s smoky, cramped, and incredibly atmospheric. This is the spot for moody, cyberpunk-style Tokyo street photography.

PRO PHOTO TIP: Be respectful. Many shops do not like photos, especially of the patrons. Use a small, discreet camera. The best shot is often from the entrance of the alley, using a long lens to compress the scene and capture the layers of lanterns and smoke.

GPS Coordinates: 35.6930° N, 139.7000° E (This is the main entrance from Shinjuku West Exit)

Address: 1 Chome-2 Nishishinjuku, Shinjuku City, Tokyo 160-0023, Japan

Cost: Free to walk, but I highly recommend grabbing a seat for some beer and yakitori.

Best Time to Shoot: At night, after 7 PM, when the stalls are full and the lanterns are glowing.

Official Website: Shinjuku Omoide Yokocho

Senso-ji: The Main Hall & Five-Story Pagoda

Once you pass through the main gates, the temple grounds open up to reveal the stunning Main Hall (Hondo) and the iconic Five-Story Pagoda. The vibrant red of the structures against a blue sky or illuminated at night is a breathtaking sight.

PRO PHOTO TIP: The best spot to capture both the pagoda and the main hall is from the Hozomon Gate (the inner gate). For a unique angle, try a low-angle shot looking up at the pagoda to emphasize its height and intricate details.

GPS Coordinates: 35.7148° N, 139.7967° E

Address: 2 Chome-3-1 Asakusa, Taito City, Tokyo 111-0032, Japan

Cost: Free

Best Time to Shoot: Sunrise for soft light, or dusk when the structures are beautifully lit.

Official Website: Senso-ji Temple

Senso-ji:The Kaminarimon Gate

Welcome to Tokyo's oldest temple. The first iconic shot is the Kaminarimon (Thunder Gate) with its massive red lantern, which serves as the grand entrance to the entire temple complex and the lively Nakamise-dori street.

PRO PHOTO TIP: This spot is extremely crowded. To get a clean shot without people, you must arrive at sunrise (around 6 AM). Otherwise, embrace the crowds and use them as part of your composition.

GPS Coordinates: 35.7117° N, 139.7967° E

Address: 2 Chome-3-1 Asakusa, Taito City, Tokyo 111-0032, Japan

Cost: Free

Best Time to Shoot: Sunrise (6 AM - 7 AM) or late at night (10 PM onwards) when the grounds are quiet and beautifully illuminated.

Official Website: Senso-ji Temple

The View of Shibuya Crossing (from Starbucks)

TOP: View from Shibuya Crossing at night
BOTTOM: View from Starbucks in the morning (It'll be better to photograph this in the afternoon or night.)

This is it—the most iconic photo spot in all of Tokyo. The Shibuya Scramble Crossing is the world's busiest intersection, and watching the organized chaos from above is mesmerizing. The best and most accessible view is from the 2nd-floor window of the Starbucks in the Tsutaya building. Get ready to be patient, as this is not a secret spot, but the shot is worth it.

You can also actually cross the street to experience it for yourself, as I’ve photographed. But please don’t stop in the middle of the street…that’s pretty annoying and disruptive.

PRO PHOTO TIP: Use a slow shutter speed (if you have a tripod or steady hand) to capture the motion blur of the crowds while the buildings stay sharp. At night, this creates stunning light trails. This is a classic Tokyo night photography location.

GPS Coordinates: 35°39'35"N, 139°42'01"E (This is the window of the Starbucks)

Address: 21-6 Udagawacho, Shibuya City, Tokyo 150-0042, Japan

Cost: The price of a coffee (be polite and buy a drink to use the space).

Best Time to Shoot: Dusk or at night. A rainy night is even better for capturing reflections on the pavement.

The View from the Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center

Directly opposite the Kaminarimon Gate is a beautifully designed building that holds a secret weapon for photographers: a free observation deck on the 8th floor. The best part? This deck is usually not crowded, and it offers a perfect, elevated, straight-on view down Nakamise-dori street to the temple's Hozomon Gate and Pagoda.

PRO PHOTO TIP: This is the best way to capture the scale and energy of the temple approach. Use a zoom lens to compress the scene and make the temple appear closer and larger behind the bustling market street.

GPS Coordinates: 35.7109° N, 139.7965° E

Address: 2 Chome-18-9 Kaminarimon, Taito City, Tokyo 111-0034, Japan

Cost: Free

Best Time to Shoot: Daytime to capture the crowds, or at dusk as the temple lights begin to glow.

Official Website: Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center

The Tokyo Skytree View from Asakusa

The Asakusa area offers one of the best views of the Tokyo Skytree, creating a perfect blend of old and new. From the Azuma-bashi Bridge over the Sumida River, you can frame a shot that includes the Skytree, the quirky Asahi Beer Hall, and riverboats. Or, you can shoot Skytree from Senso-ji like I did!

PRO PHOTO TIP: Frame Skytree with surrounding buildings. It’ll make for a neat shot!

GPS Coordinates: 35.7103° N, 139.7997° E

Address: 1 Chome-1-1 Azumabashi, Sumida City, Tokyo 130-0001

Cost: Free

Best Time to Shoot: Blue hour and into the night.

Nakamise-dori Shopping Street

The bustling street leading from the Kaminarimon to the temple's main hall is a photo opportunity in itself. Nakamise-dori is lined with traditional stalls selling snacks, souvenirs, and crafts. It's the perfect place to capture the lively atmosphere of Asakusa.

PRO PHOTO TIP: Focus on the details: the steam rising from freshly made senbei (rice crackers), the colorful displays of souvenirs, or the intricate paintings on the closed shop shutters early in the morning.

GPS Coordinates: 35.7113° N, 139.7966° E (This is the middle of the street)

Address: 1 Chome-20-2 Asakusa, Taito City, Tokyo 111-0032, Japan

Cost: Free to browse.

Best Time to Shoot: During the day for the bustling energy, or very early morning/late night to photograph the beautiful paintings on the closed shutters.

Official Website: Asakusa Nakamise

Azabudai Hills Sky ROOM (34F)

For the best view of Tokyo Tower, head to the 34rd-floor Sky Room of the new Azabudai Hills Mori JP Tower. This observation deck offers a jaw-dropping, eye-level perspective of the tower that you can't get anywhere else, framed perfectly by the floor-to-ceiling windows. It's quickly become one of the top Tokyo photography locations. It’s a cafe though, so you do need to buy a (overpriced) drink, but the view is worth it.

PRO PHOTO TIP: This spot is incredible at sunset and into the blue hour. As the sun goes down, the Tokyo Tower lights up, creating a magical contrast against the darkening sky.

GPS Coordinates: 35.6631° N, 139.7431° E

Address: 1 Chome-3-1 Azabudai, Minato City, Tokyo 106-0041, Japan

Cost: Free

Best Time to Shoot: 30 minutes before sunset until an hour after.

Official Website: Azabudai Hills

Meiji Jingu Shrine (The Giant Torii Gate)

This is probably one of my favorite spots in the entire city. The minute you see this giant Tori gate is when you immediately feel the busy city melt away. The most iconic photo shown here is of the massive wooden torii gate at the entrance, which perfectly frames the serene forest path.

The walk from the Torii gate to the shrine is a perfect calming stroll to include in your itinerary.

PRO PHOTO TIP: Just before the main hall, you'll find a beautiful wall of decorated sake barrels, which makes for another fantastic, colorful photo op.

GPS Coordinates: 35°40'10.9"N, 139°42'8.3"E (This is for the Jingu Bashi bridge, the main entrance)

Address: 1-1 Yoyogikamizonocho, Shibuya City, Tokyo 151-8557, Japan

Cost: Free

Best Time to Shoot: Early morning, right after the gates open (check seasonal times).

Official Website: Meiji Jingu

Hie Shrine

For the Kyoto-style" Torii Gates

You don't have to go all the way to Kyoto to get your iconic torii gate tunnel shot. Hie Shrine, located in the middle of Akasaka, has a stunning tunnel of vibrant red gates on its western staircase. It's a surprisingly quiet oasis and a top hidden photo spot in Tokyo. I’ve been here several times and it’s never crowded.

PRO PHOTO TIP: This is a great spot to practice perspective. Get low to the ground at the bottom of the stairs and shoot upwards to make the tunnel feel endless.

GPS Coordinates: 35°40'30.3"N, 139°44'20.9"E

Address: 2 Chome-10-5 Nagatacho, Chiyoda City, Tokyo 100-0014, Japan

Cost: Free

Best Time to Shoot: Early morning (before 9 AM) on a weekday to avoid people in your shot.

Official Website: Hie Jinja

Tokyo Skytree

As the tallest structure in Japan, the Skytree offers an unparalleled 360-degree panoramic view of the entire city. From the Tembo Deck (350m) and the higher Tembo Galleria (450m), you can truly appreciate the scale of the Tokyo metropolis. On a clear day, you can even spot Mt. Fuji in the distance.

PRO PHOTO TIP: To combat reflections from the glass, press your lens as close to the window as possible. A polarizing filter can also help. The best light for capturing details of the city below is during the "golden hour" just before sunset.

GPS Coordinates: 35.7101° N, 139.8107° E (Base of the tower)

Address: 1 Chome-1-2 Oshiage, Sumida City, Tokyo 131-0045, Japan

Cost: Tickets start around 1,800 JPY. Check the official site for combo ticket prices.

Best Time to Shoot: A clear day for the best visibility, or during sunset to capture the city as it lights up.

Official Website: Tokyo Skytree

Tokyo Tower (View from the Top)

An iconic symbol of Tokyo, the tower offers breathtaking panoramic views of the sprawling cityscape from its two observation decks.

The Main Deck at 150 meters provides a fantastic perspective, while the Top Deck at 250 meters offers a truly vast, sweeping vista. I went to both decks, and think it’s fine to buy a cheaper ticket and just go to the main deck.

You can capture the intricate urban sprawl and on a very clear day, even Mt. Fuji.

While this entry covers the view from Tokyo Tower, there are spots all over the city where you can capture this gorgeous tower all around. We’ll cover some of these locations throughout this list.

PRO PHOTO TIP: Press your lens or phone right up against the glass to minimize reflections, which are the biggest challenge here. Sunset and the "blue hour" are magical times to watch the city lights turn on from above.

GPS Coordinates: 35.6586° N, 139.7454° E

Address: 4 Chome-2-8 Shibakoen, Minato City, Tokyo 105-0011, Japan

Cost: Tickets start around 1,200 JPY for the Main Deck.

Best Time to Shoot: Sunset/blue hour for dramatic city lights, or a very clear morning for the best chance to see Mt. Fuji.

Official Website: Tokyo Tower

teamLab Planets TOKYO

You've seen this immersive digital art museum all over Instagram, and for good reason. It’s a completely surreal experience where art, technology, and the viewer merge.

You'll walk barefoot through water-filled rooms with digital koi fish and navigate a universe of dangling crystal lights.

The "Infinite Crystal Universe" room is the money shot for an unforgettable instagrammable Tokyo picture.

PRO PHOTO TIP: Wear shorts or pants that can be easily rolled up, as you will be needing to take off your socks and shoes and will be wading in knee-deep water. Skirts are not recommended due to the mirrored floors. Tripods and monopods are not allowed.

GPS Coordinates: 35°38′56.67″N, 139°47′22.29″E

Address: 6 Chome-1-16 Toyosu, Koto City, Tokyo 135-0061, Japan

Cost: ~$3,800 JPY (Approx. $25 USD). You MUST book tickets far in advance.

Best Time to Shoot: Go during a weekday, ideally during Japanese dinner time (around 7 PM) for slightly fewer crowds.

Official Website: teamLab Planets

Zojo-ji Temple

Looking for the perfect blend of old and new? This is it. Zojo-ji Temple is a beautiful, important Buddhist temple, but its main draw for photographers is the Sangedatsumon Gate, which perfectly frames the bright orange Tokyo Tower behind it. It's a stunning contrast and a must-have shot for your photo spots in Tokyo collection.

PRO PHOTO TIP: Stand just behind the Sangedatsumon Gate and use a wide-angle lens to capture the gate's roof while ensuring the entire Tokyo Tower fits in the frame.

GPS Coordinates: 35.6574° N, 139.7483° E

Address: 4 Chome-7-35 Shibakoen, Minato City, Tokyo 105-0011, Japan

Cost: Free

Best Time to Shoot: Dusk, during the "blue hour," when the temple's lights turn on and the tower is fully lit against the deep blue sky.

Official Website: Zojoji Temple

Shinjuku Golden Gai

A labyrinth of six narrow alleys packed with over 200 tiny, atmospheric bars. Most photo guides will tell you mostly to come at night, but I think the daytime shot is rather nice too.

At night, its glowing lanterns and ramshackle two-story buildings really set the mood for night photography in Tokyo and has a slightly grittier, more preserved feel than Omoide Yokocho.

PRO PHOTO TIP: Photography is often restricted here to protect patron privacy. Be very discreet. The best shots are of the alleys themselves, focusing on the layers of signs, wires, and lanterns. A fast prime lens (f/1.8 or f/1.4) is perfect for the low light.

GPS Coordinates: 35°41′38″N, 139°42′17″E

Address: 1 Chome-1-6 Kabukicho, Shinjuku City, Tokyo 160-0021, Japan

Cost: Free to walk through.

Best Time to Shoot: Late at night (after 9 PM) when the bars are lit up and lively…but my photo above is during the day.

Official Website: Shinjuku Golden Gai

Akihabara "Electric Town"

This is the heart of otaku (geek) culture. The main crossing in Akihabara is surrounded by massive buildings covered in colorful anime and video game advertisements. At night, it’s a neon wonderland that screams "Tokyo."

PRO PHOTO TIP: Stand on the street corner (similar to Shibuya) and use a wide-angle lens to capture the scale of the buildings. A long exposure at night will blur the passing cars, creating a river of light.

GPS Coordinates: 35°41′54″N, 139°46′23″E (This is the main crossing outside Akihabara Station)

Address: 1 Chome Sotokanda, Chiyoda City, Tokyo 101-0021, Japan

Cost: Free

Best Time to Shoot: Night. There is no other answer.

Official Website: Akihabara Tourism

The Odaiba Statue of Liberty

I just want to say that as an American, I think it’s hilarious that Tokyo has its own Statue of Liberty. Confused me seven ways to Sunday the first time I randomly stumbled upon it, but I thought it added to Tokyo’s international charm. This replica, standing proudly in Odaiba, offers a wonderfully quirky photo opportunity against the backdrop of Tokyo Bay. It's a surreal and fun shot that captures the unexpected side of the city.

PRO PHOTO TIP: Use a polarizing filter to make the blue sky pop and reduce reflections on the water.

GPS Coordinates: 35.6300° N, 139.7755° E

Address: 1 Chome-4 Daiba, Minato City, Tokyo 135-0091, Japan

Cost: Free

Best Time to Shoot: Daytime, especially on a clear, sunny day.

Official Website: Tokyo Port - Odaiba Marine Park

Godzilla Head (Shinjuku Kabukicho)

Peeking menacingly over the Toho Cinema building in Shinjuku is the life-sized head of the king of monsters, Godzilla.

This quirky and fun photo op is a must for any movie fan and perfectly captures the playful side of Tokyo's bustling Kabukicho district. The streets below are alive with neon and activity, making for a vibrant backdrop.

PRO PHOTO TIP: The best spot for a clear shot from the street is the plaza on Yasukuni Dori, looking up toward the Hotel Gracery. The head roars and lights up at the top of every hour from noon until 8 PM, which makes for a more dynamic photo, especially against the neon glow of Kabukicho at night.

GPS Coordinates: 35.6953° N, 139.7022° E

Address: 1 Chome-19-1 Kabukicho, Shinjuku City, Tokyo 160-8466, Japan

Cost: Free to view from the street.

Best Time to Shoot: At the top of the hour to catch the show, especially at night when it's illuminated against the neon glow of Kabukicho.

Official Website: Hotel Gracery Shinjuku

The National Art Center, Tokyo

A masterpiece of modern architecture designed by Kisho Kurokawa. The building itself is the main attraction for photographers, featuring a stunning, wavelike glass facade and two massive concrete cones inside the sun-drenched atrium. And, it’s featured in the popular anime movie “Your Name” too!

PRO PHOTO TIP: Use a wide-angle lens to capture the scale of the glass atrium. The light filtering through the wavy glass creates beautiful, dynamic shadows that change throughout the day, offering ever-changing compositions.

GPS Coordinates: 35.6656° N, 139.7282° E

Address: 7 Chome-22-2 Roppongi, Minato City, Tokyo 106-8558

Cost: Free to enter the atrium. Exhibitions require tickets.

Best Time to Shoot: Daytime, to capture the incredible natural light inside the atrium.

Official Website: The National Art Center, Tokyo

Tokyo International Forum

This one is for the architecture lovers.

The Glass Hall at the Tokyo International Forum is a breathtaking piece of modern design.

It looks like the inside of a giant, futuristic spaceship. The curved glass-and-steel ribs, crisscrossed by walkways, create incredible leading lines.

PRO PHOTO TIP: Use a wide-angle lens and shoot from one of the lower-level walkways, looking straight up. This emphasizes the immense scale and symmetry of the building.

GPS Coordinates: 35°40′37″N, 139°45′51″E

Address: 3 Chome-5-1 Marunouchi, Chiyoda City, Tokyo 100-0005, Japan

Cost: Free

Best Time to Shoot: Daytime, when the hall is filled with natural light.

Official Website: Tokyo International Forum

Gotokuji Temple (The "Lucky Cat" Temple)

If you're a cat lover, this spot is non-negotiable. Tucked away in a quiet Setagaya neighborhood (emphasis on quiet, this area is a far cry from the madness of Shinjuku or Shibuya), this small temple is the (alleged) birthplace of the maneki-neko, or "beckoning cat."

A corner of the temple is filled with thousands—and I mean thousands—of lucky cat statues left as offerings.

PRO PHOTO TIP: Bring a prime lens (like a 50mm f/1.8) to get that beautiful, blurry background (bokeh) and make one or two cats stand out from the crowd.

GPS Coordinates: 35°38′55.6″N, 139°38′50.7″E (This is the spot with the cat statues)

Address: 2 Chome-24-7 Gotokuji, Setagaya City, Tokyo 154-0021, Japan

Cost: Free

Best Time to Shoot: Mid-morning or early afternoon on a weekday.

Official Website: Setagaya City - Gotokuji

Hamarikyu Gardens

This is where nature and the metropolis collide. Hamarikyu is a stunning traditional Japanese garden that was once the private villa of a powerful feudal lord.

A beautiful teahouse sits on a small island in the middle of a pond, and rising directly behind it are the modern skyscrapers of Shiodome.

This garden is where I go when I just want to leave the busy streets in Tokyo. It’s rather theuropeutic to kind of just sit and stare at the view here.

PRO PHOTO TIP: The contrast between the tranquil, historic garden in the foreground and the futuristic skyline in the background is the defining shot here. A zoom lens can help compress the scene and make the skyscrapers feel closer.

GPS Coordinates: 35.6611° N, 139.7636°

Address: 1-1 Hamarikyuteien, Chuo City, Tokyo 104-0046, Japan

Cost: 300 JPY

Best Time to Shoot: Late afternoon, when the "golden hour" light hits the skyscrapers.

Official Website: Hamarikyu Gardens

Nezu Museum & Garden

For a moment of pure zen, the the Nezu Museum and its garden are hidden gems.

While the museum's collection is world-class, the real star for photographers is its sprawling traditional Japanese garden, complete with winding paths, stone lanterns, teahouses, and a stunning bamboo-lined walkway that feels a world away from the city.

PRO PHOTO TIP: The soft, filtered light in the morning is magical here.

GPS Coordinates: 35.6637° N, 139.7183°

Address: 6 Chome-5-1 Minamiaoyama, Minato City, Tokyo 107-0062, Japan

Cost: 1300 JPY (for museum and garden entrance)

Best Time to Shoot: A weekday morning to enjoy the tranquility. Autumn colors here are spectacular.

Official Website: Nezu Museum

Takeshita Street, Harajuku

Get ready for sensory overload. Takeshita Street is the epicenter of Japanese kawaii (cute) culture. It’s a narrow pedestrian street overflowing with wild fashion, colorful crepe stalls, and giant cotton candy. The best photos here are of the street style and the insanely photogenic food.

PRO PHOTO TIP: Don't just photograph the street; photograph the details. Get a shot of a colorful crepe, the giant rainbow cotton candy from Totti Candy Factory.

GPS Coordinates: 35.6713° N, 139.7047° E (This is the main entrance arch)

Address: 1 Chome-17-10 Jingumae, Shibuya City, Tokyo 150-0001, Japan

Cost: Free to walk

Best Time to Shoot: Mid-afternoon (1 PM - 4 PM) when the street is at its most crowded and chaotic. Embrace the energy! Not for introverts or people who hate crowds.

Official Website: Takeshita Street Commerce Association

Ghibli Museum, Mitaka

A whimsical journey into the world of Studio Ghibli. While photography is strictly forbidden inside, the charming exterior, with the giant Totoro at the ticket entrance and the life-sized Robot Soldier from Castle in the Sky on the roof, is highly photogenic and a must for fans.

That said, while I loved the enjoying the museum for the photography, you do need to be about to read Japanese to appreciate the exhibits.

PRO PHOTO TIP: Bring wide angle lens to capture the whimsical environment.

GPS Coordinates: 35.6963° N, 139.5706° E

Address: 1 Chome-1-83 Shimorenjaku, Mitaka, Tokyo 181-0013

Cost: 1,000 JPY.

NOTE: You do need to book your ticket months in advance to get here. By that, I mean get ready to book online on their website the MINUTE tickets open for the month you’re visiting. It’s wildly popular here.

Best Time to Shoot: The light on the rooftop garden is best in the morning or late afternoon.

Official Website: Ghibli Museum, Mitaka

Yanaka Ginza Shopping Street

Step into a Tokyo from a different era. This nostalgic shopping street is filled with traditional shops and a charming, local atmosphere. The most famous shot is from the top of the "Yuyake Dandan" (Sunset Stairs) at the entrance, which offers a beautiful view down the lantern-lined street.

PRO PHOTO TIP: Use a telephoto lens from the top of the stairs at sunset to compress the scene, making the street look bustling and framing the warm sunset glow.

GPS Coordinates: 35.7225° N, 139.7708° E

Address: 3 Chome-13-1 Yanaka, Taito City, Tokyo 110-0001, Japan

Cost: Free

Best Time to Shoot: Sunset.

Official Website: Yanaka Ginza

Imperial Palace Grounds

The home of the Emperor of Japan is a vast park surrounded by moats and massive stone walls in the very center of Tokyo.

While you can't enter the main palace, the public East Garden is beautiful, and the most iconic photograph is of the Nijubashi (Double Bridge) from the Kokyo Gaien plaza. The grounds and moat surrounding the Imperial Palace also make for good photography and a great stroll.

For reasons unknown, I bookend every visit to Tokyo with a stroll along the imperial palace grounds. You’ll find me there my first day in the city… and my last day in the city.

PRO PHOTO TIP: The imperial palace grounds with the perfectly maintained trees always make for a unique shot.

GPS Coordinates: 35.6823° N, 139.7533° E (This is the viewpoint for the Nijubashi Bridge)

Address: 1-1 Chiyoda, Chiyoda City, Tokyo 100-8111, Japan

Cost: Free

Best Time to Shoot: Morning, when the light is soft and crowds are thinner.

Official Website: Imperial Household Agency

Akasaka Palace (State Guesthouse)

You might think you've been transported to Europe when you see Akasaka Palace. When I saw this place’s grand, white facade and green rooftops, I couldn’t help but make the comparison between this palace and the Hofburg in Vienna.

This magnificent neo-baroque building is one of Japan's two state guesthouses. Its opulent design, grand gates, and manicured gardens offer a completely different kind of photo opportunity compared to the rest of Tokyo.

PRO PHOTO TIP: The ornate main gate makes for a fantastic framing element. The palace is only open to the public on specific days, so check the official website in advance if you want to go inside.

GPS Coordinates: 35.6798° N, 139.7285° E

Address: 2 Chome-1-1 Motoakasaka, Minato City, Tokyo 107-0051, Japan

Cost: Free to photograph from the outside gate. Admission to the grounds has a fee.

Best Time to Shoot: A clear day with blue skies to complement the palace's light-colored stone.

Official Website: State Guesthouse, Akasaka Palace

Tokyo Station (Marunouchi Side)

I love this place. A stunning piece of architectural history. The beautifully restored, red-brick facade of Tokyo Station's Marunouchi Building offers a taste of European elegance right in the heart of the city.

The contrast between the classic 1914 structure and the sleek, modern skyscrapers of the surrounding business district is a photographer's dream.

PRO PHOTO TIP: Stand in the middle of the Marunouchi Central Plaza for a perfect symmetrical shot. This location transforms at blue hour and into the night when the building is beautifully illuminated. A tripod and long exposure can create stunning light trails from the passing traffic.

GPS Coordinates: 35°40'53.8"N 139°45'58.0"E

Address: 1 Chome Marunouchi, Chiyoda City, Tokyo 100-0005, Japan

Cost: Free to photograph from the outside.

Best Time to Shoot: Blue hour is the absolute best time for this shot.

Official Website: JR East - Tokyo Station City

Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building

Want a stunning, panoramic view of the Tokyo skyline for free?

This is your spot. The observation deck on the 45th floor offers incredible views, especially of the dense Shinjuku skyscrapers. There’s actually two observation decks that have different opening days and hours, so be sure to check the website before you visit.

On a clear day, Mount Fuji is perfectly visible in the distance.

PRO PHOTO TIP: The windows can be reflective. Press your lens (or phone) right up against the glass to minimize reflections. You'll need a very clear, non-hazy day to see Mt. Fuji, so go early in the morning.

GPS Coordinates: 35°41′23″N, 139°41′32″E

Address: 2 Chome-8-1 Nishishinjuku, Shinjuku City, Tokyo 163-8001, Japan

Cost: Free

Best Time to Shoot: Sunset (to watch the city light up) or a clear, crisp morning (for the best chance to see Mt. Fuji).

Official Website: TMG Observation Deck

National Diet Building

A symbol of power and democracy in Japan, the National Diet Building is a masterpiece of grand, symmetrical architecture.

The central tower and pyramid-shaped roof stand out against the Tokyo skyline. Its white granite facade is particularly striking. The inside is gorgeous as well, but you need to book a tour to get in.

They have two tours- one with the House of Reps, and one with the House of Councillors. I went to both tours… and learned there was no need to do such a thing because it’s the same tour. That said, the tour was is one of my favorite activities in Tokyo. I learned a lot about how Japanese government functions, and met many fellow travelers who’d also nerd out about world politics.

PRO PHOTO TIP: Go inside. Take the tour.

GPS Coordinates: 35.6763° N, 139.7450° E

Address: 1 Chome-7-1 Nagatacho, Chiyoda City, Tokyo 100-0014, Japan

Cost: Free to photograph from the outside.

Best Time to Shoot: A bright, sunny day makes the granite pop. Golden hour can also cast beautiful long shadows.

Official Website: House of Representatives, Japan

Kyu Asakura House

A beautifully preserved Taisho-era (1912-26) residence with a stunning traditional Japanese garden right in the heart of Daikanyama. It's a hidden gem that offers a peaceful escape and a glimpse into early 20th-century Japanese architecture. Felt like I stepped in a time machine back in time here.

PRO PHOTO TIP: Focus on the interplay of light and shadow through the wooden shoji screens. Frame shots of the garden from inside the house for a sense of depth and tranquility. It's a fantastic spot for capturing quiet, detailed images.

GPS Coordinates: 35.6465° N, 139.7025° E

Address: 29-20 Sarugakucho, Shibuya City, Tokyo 150-0033

Cost: 100 JPY

Best Time to Shoot: Morning on a weekday. The autumn foliage is spectacular here.

Official Website: Shibuya City - Kyu Asakura House

Hijiri-bashi Bridge

An elegant, concrete arch bridge crossing the Kanda River near Akihabara. Its name means "Holy Bridge," and it's a fantastic spot for classic, architectural street photography, capturing a slice of Tokyo's complex urban layers.

This spot was also featured in the movie Suzume. Even if you don’t know the movie, you probably would know the song, given that it commandeered everyone’s Instagram feed for a summer.

PRO PHOTO TIP: The best composition includes the bridge's arch with the passing red Marunouchi subway line trains visible below, creating a dynamic shot of Tokyo's infrastructure. A long exposure at night can blur the train into a streak of light.

GPS Coordinates: 35.6980° N, 139.7681° E

Address: Kanda Surugadai, Chiyoda City, Tokyo 101-0062

Cost: Free

Best Time to Shoot: Blue hour, when the city lights turn on and you can capture train light trails.

Edo-Tokyo Open Air Architectural Museum

Step back in time at this incredible open-air museum. Historic buildings from the Edo and early Showa periods from across Tokyo have been relocated and preserved here, creating a full-scale historical town.

The main street, with its vintage shops, public bathhouse, and old tram, famously inspired scenes in Studio Ghibli's Spirited Away.

PRO PHOTO TIP: Go inside the buildings! The preserved interiors, like the Sentō (public bath), offer incredibly unique and detailed photo opportunities that you can't find anywhere else.

GPS Coordinates: 35.7158° N, 139.5113° E

Address: 3 Chome-7-1 Sakuracho, Koganei, Tokyo 184-0005, Japan

Cost: 400 JPY

Best Time to Shoot: A weekday afternoon to avoid crowds. Autumn provides a beautiful backdrop of fall colors for the historic buildings.

Official Website: Edo-Tokyo Open Air Architectural Museum

Map of the Most Instagrammable Places in Tokyo, Japan

Here’s a map of exactly where you can get the best Instagram photos in Tokyo for your next trip. In order to use it, just open it on your phone and these pins should show up when you get here.

My most instagrammable maps include photos and a description at each pin so you know what you’re heading to.

You can also save and customize my maps for your own trip planning! Just click on the ‘view larger’ rectangle on the right hand corner -> copy map, and now you have a copy that you can customize to your interests during your visit!

Pin it for Later!

Sample Tokyo Photography Itineraries

To help you plan your trip, here are a few sample itineraries grouping nearby spots together.

• The "Shibuya & Harajuku Blitz" (1 Day): Start your morning at (14) Meiji Jingu Shrine, then brave the crowds at (25) Takeshita Street. Photograph the futuristic (19) Tokyu Plaza entrance before heading to Shibuya for a late afternoon and evening shoot at (1) Shibuya Crossing.

• The "Tradition & Towers" Route (1 Day): Begin at (23) Hamarikyu Gardens, then walk to Minato. See the perfect pairing of (15) Zojo-ji Temple & Tokyo Tower. In the evening, head to (7) Azabudai Hills for a sunset view.

• The "Neon Nights" Tour: Start at dusk in Shinjuku, exploring the moody alleys of (8) Omoide Yokocho and (16) Shinjuku Golden Gai. Then take the train to (17) Akihabara to capture the electric energy of the main crossing at its peak.

Essential Photography Gear for Tokyo

While any camera will do, here's what I recommend to get the best photos in Tokyo:

• A good walk-around zoom lens (like a 24-70mm) for general use.

• A wide-angle lens (like a 16-35mm) is essential for skyscrapers, temples, and street crossings.

• A prime lens (like a 50mm $f/1.8$) is perfect for low-light alleys like Omoide Yokocho and for food/portraits.

• A lightweight travel tripod is a must-have for all the stunning night shots and long exposures this city offers.

• Extra batteries and memory cards. You will take more photos than you think!

Summary of Tokyo Photo Spots

• teamLab Borderless

• Omoide Yokocho

• Senso-ji: The Main Hall & Five-Story Pagoda

• Senso-ji:The Kaminarimon Gate

• The View of Shibuya Crossing (from Starbucks)

• The View from the Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center

• The Tokyo Skytree View from Asakusa

• Nakamise-dori Shopping Street

• Azabudai Hills Sky ROOM (34F)

• Meiji Jingu Shrine (The Giant Torii Gate)

• Hie Shrine

• Tokyo Skytree

• Tokyo Tower (View from the Top)

• teamLab Planets TOKYO

• Zojo-ji Temple

• Shinjuku Golden Gai

• Akihabara "Electric Town"

• The Odaiba Statue of Liberty

• Godzilla Head (Shinjuku Kabukicho)

• The National Art Center, Tokyo

• Tokyo International Forum

• Gotokuji Temple (The "Lucky Cat" Temple)

• Hamarikyu Gardens

• Nezu Museum & Garden

• Takeshita Street, Harajuku

• Ghibli Museum, Mitaka

• Yanaka Ginza Shopping Street

• Imperial Palace Grounds

• Akasaka Palace (State Guesthouse)

• Tokyo Station (Marunouchi Side)

• Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building

• National Diet Building

• Kyu Asakura House

• Hijiri-bashi Bridge

• Edo-Tokyo Open Air Architectural Museum

*Special thanks to my brother for walking to photo spots all around Tokyo with me, and Cass for photographing the first teamLabs photo for me!